Council Installs New Fairtrade Signs Across the District

In a first for Northern Ireland, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has recently erected Fairtrade signs at all its 21 district boundary signs.

The erection of the signs is a real show of commitment by the Council to continue to promote and support Fairtrade within the district.  At the installation of the first sign, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Cathy Mason joined members of the local Fairtrade Steering Group.  She said, “It is fantastic to see the Fairtrade signs being erected across the district. It makes a strong statement that the Council and the local Fairtrade Steering Group will continue to support and promote Fairtrade locally.”

Councillor Mason continued, “The Fairtrade status we have earned covers the entire district and includes Newry City and the main towns of Ballynahinch, Downpatrick, Newcastle, Saintfield and Warrenpoint.  I would encourage everyone to consider purchasing Fairtrade certified products from your local stores and supermarkets and encourage your family, friends and colleagues to do the same.”

Dr Christopher Stange Consul General for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Secretariat, All-Party Group on Fairtrade said, “I am delighted to see the Council and the Steering Group championing Fairtrade. Displaying Fairtrade signs at all the major entries to the district immediately lets visitors and locals alike know that Newry, Mourne and Down is a Fairtrade Community. I applaud the work of the Fairtrade Committee to mark this major milestone in their work on Fairtrade.”

Dr Stange continued, “COVID resulted in various export challenges and reduced levels of Fairtrade production for developing world farmers.  This was due to restrictions in transport, measures required to combat the pandemic and job losses.  Further challenges lie ahead to our global food network, including climate change. The Fairtrade system plays an essential role in promoting a fairer system for producers and consumers alike.”